Living in Our Flow
For us ladies, our 28 day (give or take a few days, each woman is unique) menstrual cycle is such a prominent part of our lives. While it often can cause cramping, moodiness, fatigue, and low energy, it can really be a source of energy, vitality, and empowerment when we understand and embrace our cycle and its phases.
Hormones fluctuate immensely during the four stages of our menstrual cycles: menstruation, follicular, ovulation, and luteal. These hormones effect much more than just our cycle, with the way we feel, our mood, interests, libido, and even cognitive state. Below I summarize each phase and explain simple ways to use them to our advantage to optimize our vitality, productivity and feel our best.
Menstruation
Menstruation phase is the first 1-5 days where our bodies are busy shedding the uterine lining, which is what we experience as bleeding. Because of this and our hormones being at their lowest, we may feel more tired and reflective during this time.
This is the best time for organization and inner emotional work such as mindfulness, self care and journaling. You may try to organize your work space and simplify your systems.
Follicular
Follicular phase is around day 6-12 and named for the follicle maturing inside your ovary. Estrogen levels rise, making us feel energetic and optimistic.
This is the best time for more difficult or high-level tasks and activities, as we experience more energy and inspiration and learn faster, too. Revisit goals, schedule an important meeting, or try something new! (For more on productivity check out this post).
Ovulation
Ovulation phase is around day 13-18 when the ovary releases the egg. An unfertilized egg dissolves in the uterus and will then start the next phase. As Estrogen levels continue to rise, we feel more social and confident, plus a burst of Testosterone increases our libido.
This is the best time for social connection and planning fun, pleasurable activities with our partner and loved ones.
Luteal
Luteal phase is around day 19-28 when progesterone begins to be produced. Progesterone levels steadily increase, producing a calming effect, and also causing us to feel PMS symptoms.
Due to the change in hormones, this is the best time for slowing down, nesting and enjoying alone time while turning inward for some relaxing self reflection.
Now that we know more about our menstrual cycle and the four different phases, we can leverage this knowledge to feel our best and work with our bodies’ natural processes, instead of pushing against it. We see that there is a supported time for all of our activities, including productivity, planning, organization, adventure, rest, nest, and reflection. Journaling can also help us track symptoms and energy, as well as tracking our cycles (apps such as Flo, Clue, Ovia, and Glow). By tuning into our bodies, we can live in the flow, with our flow.
P.S If you’re looking for quality, effective hygiene products, such as tampons, liners and cups, I love Cora brand for their organic cotton and free shipping, but mostly because they are a certified B-corp and give back to girls worldwide with period care, education, and jobs! Now that’s a win-win, and a company who’s mission I absolutely love!
>>> Let me know what you found most interesting or surprising about the phases of our cycle! I’m looking forward to reading your comments below!
